If you’re a UK business looking to hire skilled workers from overseas, you’ll need to apply for a Skilled Worker Sponsor Licence. This license is required for any employer who wants to hire staff from outside the UK, and it’s mandatory for businesses that want to employ foreign workers after January 1, 2021. The license allows you to sponsor workers and issue them a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS).
In this guide, we’ll explain which types of businesses can apply for a Skilled Worker Licence, how the application process works, and the costs involved.
Who Can Apply for a Skilled Worker Licence?
Almost any business or organization operating lawfully in the UK can apply for a Skilled Worker Sponsor Licence. However, your business must meet certain requirements to be eligible.
Here are the main requirements:
- Genuine UK Presence: You must have a real, legal business presence in the UK. This could be a registered office or trading location.
- Honesty and Reliability: The UK Home Office will check your business’s background and reputation. You must prove you’re trustworthy and have no criminal convictions.
- Recruitment and HR Systems: Your business must have proper HR systems in place to manage your employees and sponsor them correctly.
- Eligible Job Offers: The job roles you’re hiring for must meet the skill level and salary requirements set by the Home Office.
How is Your Application Assessed?
The Home Office assesses two main criteria when reviewing your application:
- Eligibility: This confirms whether your business is genuine, operating legally in the UK, and able to fulfill the duties of a sponsor. You’ll need to provide evidence like financial records, proof of business registration, and more.
- Suitability: This checks if your business can manage the responsibilities of sponsoring workers. This includes having appropriate HR systems in place and ensuring the jobs offered meet the skill and salary requirements.
Application Process for a Skilled Worker Licence
To apply for a Skilled Worker Licence, you’ll need to follow these steps:
- Apply Online: Start by making an online application for the sponsor license.
- Submit Required Documents: You must provide evidence that your business is genuine and operating legally. Common documents include:
- Proof of business registration in the UK.
- Financial records.
- Employer liability insurance.
- Evidence that your business complies with industry-specific regulations (e.g., healthcare or food businesses).
- Home Office Evaluation: The Home Office will review your application and may visit your business site unannounced to ensure you meet the requirements.
Types of Businesses that Can Apply
Your business type plays a big role in your application process. The Home Office will consider your industry and whether you meet specific requirements based on your business sector.
- Small Businesses: If your business has fewer than 50 employees, and meets certain financial criteria, you’ll be considered a small business and may pay a lower application fee.
- Large Businesses: Businesses with more than 50 employees or higher turnover are classified as large. These businesses must pay a higher application fee.
Costs of Applying for a Skilled Worker Licence
The cost of applying for a Skilled Worker Sponsor Licence depends on the size of your business:
- Small Businesses: £536
- Medium and Large Businesses: £1,476
In addition to the application fee, you may also have to pay for other costs, such as the cost of issuing a Certificate of Sponsorship for each worker you hire.
Once your license is granted, it is valid for 4 years, after which it will need to be renewed.
Considerations for Multiple Branches
If your business has multiple branches, you have a few options for applying:
- Apply for a single license that covers your head office and all branches.
- Have each branch apply for its license.
- Group several branches under one license if they are located in the same region.
Whether you run a small or large business, applying for a Skilled Worker Sponsor Licence is an essential step if you want to hire skilled workers from outside the UK. It’s important to meet the eligibility and suitability requirements, including having a genuine UK presence and the right systems in place for recruitment and compliance. By following the application process and understanding the responsibilities of a sponsor, your business can successfully hire international talent to help grow and succeed in the UK.
If you need help applying for a Skilled Worker Licence, Law and Visas can guide you through the entire process, ensuring you meet all the requirements and submit a strong application. Start your journey today!
